Scottie Scheffler’s Honest Reaction to Rory McIlroy’s Run at the Masters 2026

The defending champion hit four straight birdies in the second round at the 6th and 7th holes and carded 65. His six-shot lead at the halfway mark went into the record books as the largest after 36 holes.

During the week leading up to Saturday, Scheffler coped with a changing leaderboard and finished the second round at 2-over par, tying for 24th before his impressive run began Saturday morning. He now sits tied for 7th place.

Scottie Scheffler’s Mental Grit at Augusta

In addition to watching the competitors, Scheffler’s round with the irons was a lesson in itself. However, the golfer jokingly argued with reporters over whether his 65 could have been even better, taking into account all his birdie chances.

The American player credited his performance to his ball striking, saying, “I hit it really nice today. I felt like I was very sharp with the irons. Got it up there. Gave myself a lot of opportunities.”

The World No. 1 noted that winning at Augusta requires mental toughness, not just physical strength.

When discussing the mindset needed to perform well in major tournaments, he further stated, “I think that’s what great players and great competitors do is they’re able to rise to the occasion.”